After suspending the draw of lots for 19 liquor shops across Telangana, the Excise Department is likely to reissue a notification for fresh applications on October 28. The draw will be held on November 3, officials said, citing poor response earlier
A Narsampet couple, Gampa Rajeshwar Goud and his wife Sambalakshmi, struck double luck by securing two liquor shops in the latest draw under Telangana’s new liquor policy. Adding to their fortune, an acquaintance they applied for also won a shop
Applicants for liquor shop licences in Telangana plan to move court against the government’s decision to extend the deadline, alleging it is arbitrary and illegal. Officials cited the BC bandh as reason, but critics see political manipulation behind the move.
Liquor shop license applications in erstwhile Karimnagar district dropped by over 3,600 this term despite a fee hike, with the government collecting nearly the same revenue as the previous round. The deadline has been extended to October 23.
Former Minister V. Srinivas Goud accused the Congress-led Telangana government of harassing toddy shop owners from the Goud community under the pretext of fighting adulteration. He alleged that the real intent was to protect the liquor mafia and increase state revenue.
